Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, savory dish that has taken the culinary world by storm? This baked feta pasta recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly flavorful, combining the richness of feta cheese with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to impress. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
– 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
– 200g feta cheese
– 300g cherry tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and olive oil.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, mixing well.
4. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
5. Drizzle more olive oil over the feta and season with additional salt and pepper.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until tomatoes are blistered and feta is soft.
7. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
8. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
9. Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, mixing thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangy flavor. Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option or swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts until warm or heat in a skillet. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the texture of the feta.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid using pre-crumbled feta; it won’t melt the same way.
– Make sure to season the tomatoes well for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the pasta water; it adds creaminess to the dish.
– Use fresh garlic for more robust flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality feta cheese for the best taste.
– Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
– Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
– For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile. However, the texture will vary, so choose based on your preference.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or fusilli pasta works best as they hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the pasta you use is egg-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added to make the dish heartier and more filling.
Conclusion
This baked feta pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please any palate. Simple to prepare and packed with taste, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this creamy, cheesy pasta delight!
Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta penne or fusilli
- 200 g feta cheese
- 300 g cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper, mixing well.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
- Drizzle more olive oil over the feta and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until tomatoes are blistered and feta is soft.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and mash the feta and tomatoes together with a fork.
- Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish, mixing thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.